Intended Parents

How Much Does It Cost to Ship Frozen Embryos? [What to Expect]

Shipping frozen embryos is a cost you might not expect until you’re deep into the logistics of in vitro fertilization (IVF) or surrogacy.

You might need to ship your embryos if you’ve secured donated embryos from another state or need to send them to your surrogate’s fertility clinic. To ensure a smooth process, you’ll want to understand embryo shipping costs and how they fit into your overall budget.

In this article, we’ll break down how much it costs to ship embryos, what factors impact the price and how the shipping process works. If you want to learn how to budget for your fertility journey, read more about embryo transfer costs or fill out our online form.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship Frozen Embryos?

There isn’t a set price for shipping embryos because the cost depends on your individual situation. However, most people spend between $1,000 and $3,000 to transport frozen embryos to another clinic.

Some clinics may include the shipping cost for embryos in their overall package if you’ve stored your embryos with them. If shipping isn’t covered, you will want to get quotes from specialized shipping companies or fertility clinics. Comparing rates ensures you get the best value for your needs. Keep in mind that prices may vary significantly, especially for longer distances or expedited services.

If you’re interested in surrogacy, there may be circumstances that make shipping embryos to your surrogate’s clinic necessary. Learn more about shipping frozen embryos to another clinic.

What Affects the Cost of Shipping Frozen Embryos?

Several factors can influence how much it costs to ship embryos. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Shipping embryos across state lines tends to be less expensive than international shipments. The farther your embryos need to travel, the higher the cost will be.

Different providers offer varying services, and the shipping cost for embryos can vary based on the company you choose. Specialized fertility couriers may cost more but provide added peace of mind.

If your embryos need to arrive quickly, opting for overnight delivery will increase the price. Standard delivery options can be more affordable, but they might not be available for every route.

Embryos must be transported in temperature-controlled containers to maintain viability. These specialized containers require careful handling which will impact the overall shipping cost.

Some companies offer insurance to protect against potential losses or damage during transit. Purchasing insurance can increase your frozen embryo shipping cost but provide additional protection.

What Is the Shipping Process Like?

Shipping frozen embryos is a highly regulated process to ensure your embryos remain safe and viable during transit. Once you’ve selected a shipping company or coordinated with your clinic, the embryos are packed into straws or vials inside cryogenic containers to keep them frozen throughout the journey.

These containers are specially designed to maintain a consistent temperature for several days, even during extended travel.

After the embryos are packed, the shipping company typically arranges transportation — whether by ground, air or a combination of both. You’ll be able to track your shipment to monitor its progress, and most companies provide real-time updates so you know exactly when the embryos will arrive.

Once they reach the destination, the receiving clinic will carefully unpack and store the embryos until your transfer date.

Working with a specialized courier service that understands the unique requirements of transporting embryos can make the process smoother. If you’re shipping internationally, additional paperwork, such as customs clearance, may be required, which could add time and cost to the process.

How Much Does an Embryo Transfer Cost After Shipping?

Once your embryos arrive safely, the next step is preparing for the frozen embryo transfer. The cost to transfer frozen embryos to another clinic typically falls between $3,000 and $5,000. You won’t need to pay for a full IVF cycle — which includes egg retrieval and cryopreservation — but you will need to cover expenses associated with the procedure.

To learn more about the full cost of an embryo transfer, you can explore our detailed breakdown of embryo transfer costs. If you’re considering transferring your embryo to a surrogate, fill out our form to connect with us today. We’ll guide you through your next steps and help you plan with confidence.